CN1977494A

CN1977494A - A server, system and method for providing access to a public network through an internal network of a multi-system operator

Info

Publication number: CN1977494A
Application number: CNA200580009936XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: K·M·斯莫尔; S·C·H·斯温; A·C·米尔恩; J·R·柯里
Original assignee: Solutioninc Ltd
Current assignee: Solutioninc Ltd
Priority date: 2004-02-11
Filing date: 2005-02-02
Publication date: 2007-06-06
Anticipated expiration: 2025-02-02
Also published as: US20070180142A1; CA2457368C; HK1106892A1; EP1716667A4; CA2457368A1; WO2005079000A1; CN100547970C; EP1716667A1; US7502841B2; WO2005079000A9

Abstract

A network service management server is provided for an internal network operated by a multi-system operator, at a selected location of the internal network, such as a network head-end. The server registers a client connecting to one of the network entities. It also assigns to the client an address associated with the one of the network entities to which the client is connected. The server manages network services by handling information relating to network services for the client based on the assigned address. The server can handle network services for the client based solely on the clients assigned IP address.

Description

Provide server, system and method via the internal network of multisystem operator to the access of public network

Technical field

The present invention relates to public network and insert, more specifically, relating to the internal network that is used for via multisystem operator provides server, system and method to the access of public network.

Background technology

Now, most of suppliers of high-speed Internet supply system are connected to the internet with Local Area Network via on-the-spot (on-site) or local internet provisioning server.This local provisioning server for the Internet service supply, verify and provide billing interface.In the inside of LAN, the LAN website must provide and connect internal network traffic and with its some devices via the centring system route of LAN.The inside of LAN can be used to be provided to the hybrid system that LAN user's network connects by the Ethernet on structurized cable/switch, Digital Subscriber Line technology, wireless 802.11 devices, the coaxial cable and other and form.The internet provisioning server is directly connected to router, and it connects as this locality to the internet.

There are some multisystem operators (MSO) that the high-speed Internet service is provided via its internal network in the prior art.For example, some cable tv service suppliers provide the high-speed Internet service by their cable modem network for the cable tv service.Cable modem network is the network of cable modem.Cable modem allows subscriber computer to be connected with the internet via cable modem network.

Mobile subscriber's computer often is preconfigured with company's network or other network and is connected, and this other network is external network (foreignnetwork) for the internal network of multisystem operator.Therefore, in fact, subscriber computer can not be at the enterprising line operate of internal network.

For example, in the normal cable modem network, the subscriber computer that is configured to external network can not be at the enterprising line operate of cable modem network.The user need change the network configuration setting of subscriber computer to mate those cable modem networks.New subscriber computer joined that cable modem network is usually directed to that system configuration changes and from the help of technical support department.

Therefore, a kind of new system and method need be provided, and it allows the internal network receiving internet service of user via multisystem operator, and this internal network is cable modem network for example, meanwhile, the pre-configured network settings that keep its computer for external network.

Summary of the invention

An object of the present invention is to provide a kind of new-type system and method, its elimination or alleviate at least one shortcoming of existing system.

The present invention distributes to the address of the position of customers' responsiveness client on network.Send to or from the business of external network, for example the internet webpage business before permitting inserting external network, is blocked and is forced to by supply, checking, registration and/or billing mechanism.

According to an aspect of the present invention, provide a kind of network service management server of network service of the internal network that is used to manage the operation of multisystem operator, this internal network is made of network entity.This network service management server comprises: registration driver, address assignment processor and message handler.The registration driver is set on the position of selection of internal network, is used to register the client who is connected to a network entity.The address assignment processor is set on the position of selection of internal network, is used for the address of distributing one of network entity that is connected to the client to be associated to the client.Message handler is used for handling and the relevant information of network service for the client based on addresses distributed.

According to other aspects of the invention, a kind of network service management server that is used for the Internet service of management cable modem network is provided, and this cable modem network has a plurality of cable modems and the Cable Modem Terminal System (CMTS) that is used for communicating by letter with the cable modem that is connected.The network service management server comprises registration driver, address assignment processor and message handler.The position through selecting that the registration driver is set at cable modem network is used to register the client who is connected to a cable modem.The address assignment processor is set at the position through selecting of cable modem, is used for distributing to the client customer address that is associated of the cable modem that is connected to the client.Message handler is configured to be used for handle the information relevant with Internet service based on the customer address that distributes for the client.

According to other aspects of the invention, provide the network service method of a kind of management by the internal network of multisystem operator operation, this internal network is made of network entity.This method may further comprise the steps: the position registration through selecting in internal network is connected to the client of one of them network entity; Be an address that network entity is associated in the network entity that this client distributes with it is connected to; Be that based on addresses distributed the client handles with network and serve relevant information.

According to other aspects of the invention, provide a kind of storage to be used for carrying out the instruction of following method or the computer-readable medium of statement at computer, this management by methods is by the network service of the internal network of multisystem operator operation, and this internal network is made of network entity.

According to other aspects of the invention, be provided for carrying out the electronic signal of following method in computer, this method is used to manage the network service by the internal network of multisystem operator operation, and this internal network is made of network entity.

According to other aspects of the invention, be provided for carrying out the computer program of following method in computer, this method is used to manage the network service by the internal network of multisystem operator operation, and this internal network is made of network entity.This computer program comprises with lower module: the module that is used for being connected in the registration of the position selected of internal network one client of network entity; Be used for distributing to the module of the address that the client is associated with a network entity of its network entity that is connected to; And be used for handling the module of serving relevant information with network for the client based on addresses distributed.

Those skilled in the art are after the reference preferred embodiments and drawings of following detailed description, and others of the present invention and characteristic are obvious for them.

Description of drawings

Can from following explanation, further understand the present invention with reference to the following drawings:

Figure 1A is the block diagram that demonstrates IP supply system according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 1B is the block diagram that demonstrates network service management server according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 1 C is the FB(flow block) that demonstrates the operation of network service management server;

Fig. 2 is the block diagram of an example that demonstrates the network service management server of Figure 1B;

Fig. 3 is the block diagram that demonstrates according to the network service management server of other embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 4 is the block diagram that demonstrates according to the network service management server of other embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 5 is the block diagram that demonstrates an example of the registration driver among Fig. 2;

Fig. 6 demonstrates other assembly of network service management server or the block diagram of function;

Fig. 7 is the block diagram of an example that demonstrates the location resolution processor of Fig. 2;

Fig. 8 demonstrates the block diagram that is used for other embodiment of heterogeneous networks of the present invention.

Embodiment

The present invention is applicable to the internal network by multisystem operator (MSO) operation.This internal network comprises a plurality of network entities that are used to connect client and routed customer business.The present invention allows to manage via the external public network service provision of internal network to the client, for example, and the Internet service supply.

Various embodiments of the present invention are at being described by the operated cable modem network of cable tv service company.Yet, present invention can be applied to the internal network of dissimilar MSO, for example but be not limited to the Digital Subscriber Line network.

Figure 1A demonstrates and is used for the IP supply system 2 of cable modem network 10 according to an embodiment of the invention.Cable modem network 10 can be the new or existing network that comprises cable modem 18 and Cable Modem Terminal System (CMTS) 14.

IP supply system 2 is set at the cable headend place of the cable modem network 10 in the central site of cable companies, this cable companies actuating cable modem network 10, this IP supply system 2 general in the cable companies network operation center (NOC) 16 of CMTS 14 is set or near.IP supply system 2 be used as cable modem network 10 to the internet 24 gateway.

Cable modem network 10 is provided to the connection of a plurality of cable modems 18.Cable modem 18 can be cable modem cable or wireless.

One group of cable modem 18 is arranged in local building 16, and for example hotel, conference centre, the public the Internet place such as cafe, lobby, airport and other provide in the building of Internet service to the user.

Each cable modem 18 has one or more ports or interface, and each is connected with user client equipment (CPE) 20, for example notebook computer, PDA(Personal Digital Assistant) device or other Internet service access device.

Cable modem 18 is connected to the CMTS 14 that is arranged in NOC 6.One or more cable modems 18 can be connected to single CMTS 14.

CMTS 14 can communicate with the cable modem 18 that is connected to CMTS 14, reception is from the signal that upstream sends of the CPE 20 that is connected with the cable modem 18 that is connected, with this conversion of signals be Internet protocol (IP) bag and with this signal route to be used to be connected to internet 24, also signal can be sent to continuous CPE 20 downstream via cable modem 18.

NOC 6 also can have one or more CMTS 14, and it is communicated by letter with one or more cable modems 18, is respectively applied for the personal user who does not belong to any local building 16.If desired, those CMTS can walk around IP supply system 2.

After this cable modem 14 that is connected to CMTS 14 is being commonly referred to as " client " or " network entity " sometimes.

IP supply system 2 has network provisioning function, authentication function and charging service function to carry out network provisioning, the service for checking credentials and charging service.

The network provisioning function comprises the supplying functional of carrying out cable modem.Also comprise plug-and-play feature, this function allows the user to use its CPE 20 as the external network configuration, and these CPE 20 are connected to internet 24 via cable modem network 10, and does not change the network configuration setting.The example that is used for the network application of Internet service comprises that the voice on Email, VPN (virtual private network) (VPN) connection, instant message and the IP transmit.

Authentication function comprises and allows the user that its CPE 20 is registered to registering functional on the suitable cable modem 18.Network service management server 4 does not need to supply any cable machinery with the validation gateway work as the CPE that is used to be connected to CMTS.

Billing function comprises the physical location of resolving cable modem 18 or resolves client's local parsing function of the port of the cable modem 18 that specific CPE20 is connected to.Billing function allows local building operator to use the expense on basis to collect the charges for each user according to each.These functions further specify following.

IP supply system 2 uses network service management server 4 and/or other server so that these functions to be provided.Network service management server 12 can be used as the independent or subnetwork supplier to any or all cable modem 18 that is connected to CMTS 14 and CPE 20.When network service management server 4 during as independent network provisioning person, this network service management server 4 is carried out all three functions.When as the subnetwork supplier, the common more shared functions of this network service management server and other network service management server or other third-party server or system.Network service management server 4 can be safeguarded the public access network service of crossing over whole cable modem network 10, maybe can safeguard the public access network service for the part that arrives cable modem network 10 of the cable modem of selecting 18.

With reference to Figure 1B, an embodiment by network service management server 12 realization network service management servers 4 is described, this network service management server 12 is as the individual networks supplier, and execution network provisioning function.Present embodiment uses the hotel to describe as an example of this locality building 16.In order to simplify accompanying drawing, in hotel 16, show individual cable modulator-demodulator 18, and in NOC 6, show single CMTS 14.

CMTS 14 can move under route pattern, is used for routing service, or moves under bridge mode, is used for bridging traffic.CMTS 14 also can carry out and filter and the traffic carrying capacity adjustment.Preferably, CMTS 14 is cable data over cable service interface specifications (docs is) (DOCSIS) adaptive systems.Preferably, cable modem 18 also is the DOCSIS adaptive device.12 identifications of network service management server, collection and the Dynamic Maintenance information on each cable modem 18 and/or one group of cable modem and CPE.

The mobile subscriber can be connected to cable modem 18 with the CPE 20 that is configured to external network.CPE 20 can be DHCP (DHCP) the client CPE with IP address or have for the client of external network for the static configuration of the static ip address of its distribution.When CMTS worked under bridge mode, the client CPE that network service management system 12 can be static configuration provides the plug and play supply, and was as described below.

Network service management server 12 is integrated with cable modem network 10, thinks from this locality building operator of customized these services of cable operator and carries out IP supply, the service for checking credentials and charging service.Be connected to each point of cable modem network 10, for example, connect each point of local building, be configured to be applicable to the possessory existing customer of local building interface.Customer interface can comprise registration screen, expense detail list and internet connectivity option, and is as further described below.

These functions can be by 12 controls of network service management server and the maintenance at NOC 6.Cable companies operator can be the individual cable modulator-demodulator or one group of cable modem distributes different service provisions.Thus, for example, different hotels can be its client different supplies are provided.Equally, the not chummery in the hotel can have different supplies.

Each cable modem 18 can be by unique media interviews control (MAC) Address Recognition.The information relevant with each relevant cables modulator-demodulator 18, for example be provided with, charge detail list and connectivity option are stored in the cable modem database 26.The stored information of each cable modem is associated with the MAC Address of cable modem.

In Figure 1B, database 26 and network service management server were arranged in 12 minutes.Yet database 26 can be set in the network service management server 12.

Cable companies operator or other setter can be local building 16 cable modem 18 are installed.Network service management server 12 is followed the trail of and each cable modem 18 is mapped to its physical location, for example the guest lounge in the hotel 16.The information of this mapping, promptly the physical location of cable modem 18 is linked to the MAC Address of cable modem 18, and is stored in the cable modem database 26.

By using these map informations, when the user was connected to cable modem with CPE 20, network service management server 12 can be resolved this physical location, for example, the guest lounge, from then on the user is connected to cable modem 18 with CPE 20.

Thus, CPE 20 is supplied and is further verified by network service management server 12.Network service management server 12 is also managed and is followed the trail of and the relevant charge information of service that provides for each CPE 20 via cable modem network 10.Use the expense on basis charge (for example, set time length, based on the time, bandwidth is used, the per minute consumption) by network 10 service supplied according to each.

Because each cable modem is managed separately, local building and cable companies can be each cable modem customization display page, for example enrollment page, charging detail list and connectivity option, having the outward appearance of localization, and the picture service of feeling all right is provided in the building of this locality.

Network service management server 12 provides the function of plug and play for the client of the network C PE 20 that connects them via cable modem network.It supplies the mobile Internet service via cable modem network to the mobile subscriber.Network service management server 12 makes the user safeguard the pre-configured network settings of CPE, to obtain this service.

For this plug-and-play feature is provided, network is the IP address that CPE 20 distributes router to know, and seamlessly the CPE traffic carrying capacity is redirected to external network, for example, guides internet 24 into.

Server 12 provides transparent network insertion by following two kinds of mechanism: Network address translators (NAT): and the IP camouflage.

NAT: by network service management server 12 is that each built-in system (client) distributes unique IP address, to provide network insertion to those built-in systems.DHCP client is from a such IP address of web server requests.The static address client does not also know this unique ip address; But network service management server 12 is mapped to the unique ip address of being distributed to this client by network service management server 12 with the client's of static address static address.

Network service management server 12 can distribute individual or public ip address to the client.The client can select to be assigned with individual or public address when registration, and perhaps network service management server 12 can be configured to and only distribute public address.When internal network comprised router, the client through route that network service management server 12 can be configured on each router distributed all addresses public or that all are private.

The NAT module of network service management server is by the mapping with reference to the inside of above-mentioned network service management server, carries out the static address client and from static address client's operational address resolution.

Network service management server 12 will pretend from the business that is assigned with the client of private ip address, so that the outside business of those clients is from the outside ip address of network service management server.

Camouflage: each built-in system is shown as the IP address of server for the external world.This need be the specific protocol recognition processor (agency) of the agreement of the file transfer protocol (FTP) (FTP) of for example activity pattern, this agreement recognition processor attempts to produce client's the connection of independently returning, and also makes the change (inspection of state bag) of supporting transmission control protocol (TCP) " connection ".

Thus, the user can be linked into internet 24, and does not change the network configuration of CPE 20.The distribution of this router identification IP address will further specify in conjunction with the registration of CPE.

In order to allow the connection of CPE 20, network service management server 12 is also carried out the registration and the service for checking credentials.Before to the network service registry, the attempt that the service of internet 24 is crossed in any visit is detected or is listened to by network service management server 12.This network service management server 12 makes CPE 20 registered network services.Network service management server 12 uses the position of the CPE 20 of the information analysis registration that is stored in the cable modem database, as described further below.Use position and the log-on message of CPE 20, network service management server 12 is carried out the service of charging.

Fig. 1 C demonstrates an example of network service management server 12.In this embodiment, network service management server 12 is handled the network service that is used for DHCP, time on date (TOD), domain name system (DNS) and TFTP.Network is through cable modem 18 and CMTS 14.

When new cable modem 18 is mounted or other particular event when taking place request of DHCP cable modem and configuring request (160) that network service management server 12 receives from each cable modem 18.Network service management server 12 is handled these requests, and Trivial file transfer protocol (TFTP) comes to provide modem configuration files (162) according to the request of cable modem by for example using.The tftp server configuration file comprises that the number and the management information bank (MIB) of the connection of operating frequency, bandwidth constraints, cable modem are provided with.Network service management server 12 is store electricity cable modem MAC Address and physical location (164) in the cable modem database.In case supplied all relevant cable modems, network service management server 12 be ready to handle from Network to CPE.

The user will be connected to cable modem 18 as the CPE 20 of DHCP client CPE, and attempt by sending DHCP request access service (170).Network service management server 12 sends dhcp response (172) to CPE 20.

Network service management server 12 extracts the MAC Address of cable modem from the DHCP request, and the map information that can use these information references to be stored in the modem data storehouse 26 is determined the physical location that CPE 20 is connected.Equally, use these information, network service management server 12 provides customer interface for CPE 20, and detail list and connectivity option (178) for example charge.By customer interface, the user asks to be used for the registration (180) of the CPE 20 of Internet service by the information of option that send to select.12 registrations of network service management server and checking CPE 20 (182).

In case CPE 20 is supplied and is verified and is used for service, 24 upstream internet service is transmitted through cable modem 18, CMTS 14, network service management server 12 and router two 2 to the internet from CPE 20.24 be transmitted from the internet to the internet service downstream of CPE 20 through router twos 2, network service management server 12, CMTS 14 and cable modem 18.

For each cable modem that is associated with network service management server 12 is carried out these steps.This is effective on whole cable modem network.

With reference to the accompanying drawings 3, following other embodiment of explanation, wherein, network service management server 4 by be used for the subnetwork supplier and with third party's supply system 30 provide jointly supplying functional network service management server 13 realize.Network

service management system

13 and 30 collaborative works of third party system.Network service management system 13 can be from third party system 30 retrieval cable 3com modem information 3Coms.Some MSO operators need network configuration to comprise third party's commercial electrical cable modem supply system 30.When the supply of some or all of cable modems can be carried out, can on network service management system 13, carry out checking, NAT, agency, charging and domain name system (DNS) service to network service management system 13 visible CPE in third party system 30.Network service management system 13 and third-party cable supply system 30 can send to the cable modem group that is associated with its supply system separately with DHCP and TFTP request.

CMTS 14 is configured to and will routes to network service management server 12 or third party's supply system 30 according to the MAC Address of cable modem 18 from the request of CPE 20.Therefore, the Network of DHCP, TOD, DNS and TFTP process cable modem 18, and be sent to third party's supply system 30 or network service management server 12.

With reference to figure 4, other embodiment is described, wherein, network service management server 4 is realized by the network service management server 15 of not carrying out any network provisioning function.The Network of DHCP, TOD, DNS and TFTP is through cable modem 18 and by 30 supplies of third party's supply system.

Third party's supply system 30 is handled the supply of cable modem 18 and the configuration of DHCP request and CPE 20.

Network service management server 15 can be retrieved mac address information, and definite CPE is with respect to CMTS 14 or with respect to the physical location of third party's supply system 30.Network service management system 12 also can be carried out checking and billing function, and need not to visit the CPE MAC Address.

Among all embodiment in Figure 1B, 3 and 4, in case CPE 20 is supplied and is verified and is used for service, from CPE 20 to the internet 24 internet service upstream by through cable modem 18, CMTS 14, network

service management server

12,13 or 15 and router two 2 transmit.The internet service downstream that arrives CPE 20 is by 24 process router twos 2, network

service management server

12,13 or 15, CMTS 14 and cable modem 18 transmit from the internet.

Further describe network service management server 4 with the network service management server 12 shown in Figure 1B, network service management server 12 has three major functions of all-network supply, checking and charging service.Network service management server 4 can have manying or few function or assembly than following explanation.

Fig. 2 demonstrates the assembly of network service management server 12 or an example of function.

Network service management server 12 has registration driver 40, user logging (entry) memory 41, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol server 42, the network address translation (NAT) module 44, Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) port monitoring program (daemon) 46, cable modem message handler 48, cable modem database 26, simple file transfer protocol (TFTP) server 50, packet filtering module 99, local parsing assembly 52, metering data processor 54, billing database 56, customer interface processor 58, validation processor 60, CMTS processor 62 and graphical tool 64.

Registration driver 40 is handled the registration of CPE, and management address information and registration and the out of Memory unregistered CPE that is stored in the user logging memory 41.

Packet filtering module 99 provides basic security protection.It also tackles webpage and E-mail communication to unregistered client, and begins turning to the customer interface processor.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol server 42 distributes dynamic IP addressing to the device on the cable modem network, and this installs for example CPE and cable modem.

NAT module 44 makes cable modem network 10 use one group of IP address to be used for interior business, and second group address is used for external business.

SNMP port monitoring program 46 is come management cable modem network 10 by the protocol Data Unit (PDU) that the different piece to network sends message, needs.The device, the Call Agent that are fit to SNMP are stored data in management information bank (MIB), and these data are turned back to the SNMP requestor.

Cable modem message handler 48 is mapped to physical location with each cable modem 18, and this map information is stored in cable modem database 26.The mapping of cable modem will be described further following.Cable modem message handler 48 is also handled the configuration information relevant with each cable modem 18, for example charge detail list and connectivity option, as mentioned above.

Tftp server 50 provides TFTP supply service, and sends configuration file to cable modem.In conjunction with Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol server 42, this tftp server 50 can be used as to the different modulating demodulator or not on the same group modulator-demodulator send different configuration files.

Location resolution processor 52 is resolved the physical location of CPE 20.

Metering data processor 54 is handled the metering data of each CPE, and metering data is stored in the billing database 56.

Customer interface processor 58 for example is each local building according to information and the data processing customer interface handled by cable modem message handler 48 and metering data processor 54, and display page comprises the enrollment page and the charging page.

Validation processor 60 is handled the checking of CPE 20 according to information and the data handled by registration driver 40 and cable modem message handler 48.

CMTS processor 62 is handled and the communicating by letter and the information of CMTS of CMTS 14.

Graphical tool 64 comprises that being used to allow the user to dispose is provided with or changes by the information of other assembly processing or the instrument of data, for example, and cable modem message handler 48, metering data processor 54, CMTS processor 62 and registration driver 40.The configuration tool of an example of instrument 64 for allowing the user to dispose CMTS definition, modulator-demodulator mapping and the address realm of the CMTS of route is distributed.

Network service management server 12 is worked simultaneously with a plurality of bridge joints that are connected to network service management server 12 and route CMTS.For this reason, network service management server 12 uses the route CMTS of registration driver 40 to distribute specific CPE IP address range, cable modem IP address range and interchanger (maintenance) IP address range to each.Exchange IP address is the IP address of the network equipment of management.The use of these IP addresses allows network service management server 12 to the address that CPE, modulator-demodulator and network equipment distribute router to know, therefore, allows a plurality of route CMTS to move simultaneously.

Now the registration driver 40 to Fig. 2 is elaborated.Fig. 5 demonstrates an example of registration driver 40.Registration driver 40 comprises the address set 82 that address assignment processor 80, router know, general bridge cable modulator-demodulator address set 84, user logging processor 88 and user logging memory 41.

Address assignment processor 80 is given CPE with IP address assignment, cable modem and other network equipment.Those IP addresses by from particular way by selecting the relevant CPE of CMTS, cable modem and the exchange IP address range.

Network service management system 12 is for example supported a plurality of route devices (router), route CMTS.Address assignment processor 80 is to IP address that network equipment distributes router to know.The IP address that router is known is the address that can be assigned to the network entity behind particular router.

The general collection 84 of bridge joint CMTS Shared Cable Modem IP address.The IP address of address assignment processor 80 in client's IP address range of the CPE of bridge joint allocation criterion bridge joint, for example, common IP address range without route.

At first the CMTS that moves is described in detail IP address assignment under bridge mode.

CPE IP address can be distributed the CPE fixing or static ip address that has for the external network configuration in the following manner.When the user is connected to CPE cable modem and starts CPE, if this fixed IP addresses is in use, calculated address analysis protocol (ARP) request.The ARP request comprises fixed IP addresses and the MAC Address of CPE.The network service management server obtains the ARP request, and sends it to packet driver 303 (shown in Fig. 6).Packet driver 303 requires registration driver 40 to inquire about this fixed ip address for the CPE MAC Address.In the case, this registration driver 40 is not sought the user logging with CPE MAC Address, and therefore, registration driver 40 distributes the IP address of concentrating for CPE effective I P address pellucidly for CPE.303 pairs of ARP bags of packet driver are carried out NAT.CPE becomes the owner of the IP address allocated on the cable modem network.The CPE that 40 registrations of registration driver are used IP address allocated and selected to use the CPE MAC Address.

When network service management server 12 when CPE receives bag, this bag comprises fixed ip address and the CPE MAC Address of CPE.The network service management server sends to packet driver 303 with bag.Packet driver 303 is checked this bag, and obtains the CPE MAC Address.User logging in the registration driver 40 of packet driver 303 inquiry use CPE MAC Address, and definite IP address allocated that is associated with MAC Address.If IP address allocated is different with fixed IP addresses, this bag is carried out NAT, comprising IP address allocated, and is forwarded to NextState to the destination transmission subsequently.

When the network service management server received bag from the internet, this bag was sent to ARP processor 307 (shown Fig. 6) from IP filter.In the case, suppose that this bag comprises target customer's CPE MAC Address.ARP processor 307 inquiry CPE MAC Address.This bag is sent to the CPE MAC Address of inquiry user logging and determines the packet driver 303 of the IP address allocated relevant with the CPE MAC Address.Therefore, this packet driver 303 is discerned the CPE that these bags are sent to.If IP address allocated is different from the fixed IP addresses of CPE, then 303 pairs of this packet drivers should be carried out NAT by bag, so that this bag comprises fixed IP addresses.This bag is sent to CPE subsequently.

Therefore, this CPE can use its fixed IP addresses to send and to receive message.The user does not need to change the IP address of CPE to be connected to cable modem network.The user can serve via the cable modem network access the Internet, and does not change network configuration, for example, and the IP address.

Now the CMTS that moves is described in detail this IP address assignment under route pattern.

Below further specify the distribution of the address in other scheme and determining of CPE MAC.

Some existing route CMTS use public addressable IP address, for example RealIP (mark).Network service management server 12 is supported those public addressable IP addresses, and it comprises that RealIP is to use those routes CMTS.

Address assignment processor 80 allows to be configured the IP address set 82 that a plurality of, different routers is known by system operator.That the IP address set 82 that each router is known comprises camouflage and/or routable address realm, and be assigned to specific route CMTS.

Graphical tool 64 shown in Fig. 2 comprises configuration tool, and it is used to define the cable modem address set 84 of CPE, cable modem, interchanger address set 82 and bridge joint that router knows.Graphical tool 64 also comprises the instrument that is used to each CMTS definition IP address range.Similar instrument also can be set at registration driver 40.

When this client of registration, user logging processor 88 upgrades the information of the client in the user logging memory 41.

Each user logging 68 is that router is known, for example comprises router mac address.The IP bag has the source MAC of nearest router, and no matter how many routers this bag has crossed over.Network service management server 12 thinks that the source MAC of IP bag is the router mac address that sends the client of this bag.Therefore, client's router mac address is by automatically and dynamically arrange the source MAC of the nearest IP that sends from client's IP address wrapping.Therefore, this network service management server 12 always knows whether client's message is routed (router mac!=client MAC) and the client after which router, or whether the client is bridged (router mac=client MAC).

Each IP bag also has source IP address.Network service management server 12 thinks that the source IP address of IP bag is client IP address.Network service management server 12 can send to the DHCP bag of network service management server 12 or as described belowly determine client mac address by the management information bank on the querying router (MIB) by checking from the client.

CMTS thinks that cable modem is the dhcp relay agent (Fig. 2) that dhcp message is relayed to Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol server 42.Each user logging still is that dhcp relay agent is known, and comprises relay agent information (RAI) MAC Address.

When the client sent DHCP option 82, the RAI MAC Address was updated to the RAI MAC from the DHCP option 82 that the client receives.Setting on most CMTS adds during the DHCP DISCOVER (inquiry) that is forwarded to other network equipment by CMTS wraps DHCP option 82, and in the case, this other network equipment is a network service management system 12 for example.

RAI MAC is used to Customer Location as described below and resolves.RAI MAC also be used to determine network entity whether be CPE (client MAC!=RAI MAC) or the device of cable modem (client MAC=RAI MAC).

Therefore, the user logging in each registration driver comprises three MAC Address: client MAC; Router mac; With RAI MAC.Merging these three MAC is the information about the client that network service management system 12 provides usefulness.

Each user logging comprises original ip address (under static address user's situation), IP address allocated and client mac address, router mac address and RAI MAC Address.Under some network configuration, network service management server 12 is the subclass of the data that can collect of access network services management server 12 only.

For example, use third party's Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol server in the cable system of route, network service management server 12 general only access router MAC Address and client's IP address allocated.In this network, network service management server 12 is for having client's reservation record of same router MAC Address except having distributed for the client of the unique IP address allocated of single client some.

Network service management system 12 can be by IP address assignment processor 80 unique IP addresses of distributing to independent client, and identification is also handled the client.Even this allows server 10 to be used to have the route cable system of third party DHCP or not receive DHCP when professional at network service management server 12, and network service management server 12 is also handled the client through route when cannot see client mac address.Network service management system 12 does not receive the professional and situation that therefore do not receive client mac address of DHCP and occurs in and use third party's provisioning server as in the route cable system of unique supply agency or system 30 (Fig. 4).

Network service management server 12 is considered as the business that the internet limits that (wherein, " routermac " represent router mac address for routermac, form clientip), and " clientip " represents client's IP address.A plurality of user loggings that NAT module 44 (Fig. 2) produces in a plurality of registration drivers according to this business, and client MAC=router mac, that is, and as (routermac, form clientip).Client IP address is used to distinguish those a plurality of user loggings.

Therefore, network service management server 12 can only be operated client IP address.This allows network service management server 12 more as the gateway with the characteristic relevant with the position of chargeing, rather than the supply gateway.

Network service management server 12 can not receive the business that comprises client MAC.In the case, if route CMTS supply appropriate managerial information bank (MIB), then, when when network service management server 12 is attempted to resolve client's position, network service management server 12 is in real time from route CMTS retrieval client MAC.This occurs in as the client and is diverted into the menu that is used to register.This MIB must comprise the network entity that is used for the CMTS route (MAC, IP) right, promptly client MAC and IP address are right.Client MAC is CPE MAC or cable modem MAC herein.The example of this MIB is the ipNetToMediaPhysAddress table.As this MIB effectively and when comprising the IP address record of being discussed, network service management server 12 retrieve automatically and in real time corresponding MAC and with user logging from (routermac, clientip) be updated to (clientmac, clientip).This provides more these clients' particular data for network service management server 12.

When network service management server 12 can use IP address allocated as its client's unique identifier, network service management server 12 can effectively the time, be collected client's out of Memory to network service management server 12 in this information.For example, when network service management server 12 during, network service management server 12 access customer MAC Address, and may visit and be included in RAI MAC Address in the DHCP bag as the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol server of route cable system.In the case, network service management server 12 these client mac addresses of record, but still use client's IP address allocated as the unique identifier of its client.The out of Memory of collecting, MAC Address for example realizes some function of network service management server 12.For example, when network service management server 12 visit RAI MAC Address, network service management server 12 can use those RAI MAC Address to carry out the CPE location resolution, and is as follows.

Only use client's IP address allocated to allow network service management server 12 to be integrated in a large amount of network configuration as the ability of unique voip identifiers.

The SNMP port monitoring program 46 that shows among Fig. 2 is described in detail below.This SNMP port monitoring program 46 allows the MAC from MIB retrieval client, ipNetToMediaPhysAddress table for example, and the therefore user logging in the registration updating driver, as mentioned above.SNMP port monitoring program also can read other standard with off-gauge MIB (as required), resolve with executing location.

SNMP port monitoring program 46 also can be according to IP address allocated, rather than only according to client mac address, resolves the position of CPE.This provides location-based function in routed environment, wherein, network service management server 12 is not also visited CPE MAC Address (that is, not having the DHCP business).

The relevant DOCSIS MIB that SNMP port monitoring program 46 is supported on the CMTS is used for modulator-demodulator mapping and client MAC parsing, and support some individuals' non-DOCSISMIB, it is supplied for example about following CPE modulator-demodulator: Cisco UBR7000 sequence C MTS (trade mark), Motorola CMTS (trade mark), BSR 64000CMTS (trade mark), Arris 1000/Arris 1500 1CMTS (trade mark).Different based on the location resolution of RAI with use, this permission server 12 only uses the SNMP function executing location resolution on these CMTS.

Now the mapping of the cable modem realized by the cable modem message handler 48 shown in Fig. 2 is carried out following detailed description.Cable modem message handler 48 can be mapped in cable modem on the CMTS, that is, retrieve and will be inserted into about the information of cable modem in registration driver 40 and the cable modem database 26, is used for the CPE location resolution.It can be by MIB mapping cable modem, for example the DOCSIS MIB of the standard on the CMTS with reference to certain criteria.Therefore, cable modem message handler 48 cable modem can be mapped to virtually any network service management server 12 at least can be read-only on the CMTS of SNMP visit.

Cable modem message handler 48 does not need to receive the business (for example DHCP, TFTP, TOD) of any not request to shine upon them from cable modem 18.Network service management server 12 retrieves enough information about cable modem 18 from the MIB on the CMTS 14.

The modulator-demodulator map information of a plurality of CMTS of network service management server 12 storages.This allows network service management server 12 simultaneously to a plurality of CMTS supply repertoires.

Graphical tool 64 comprises the result's who is used to control, browse and edit the modulator-demodulator mapping instrument.

Cable modem message handler 48 allows modulator-demodulator mapping arbitrarily.It provides a kind of and specifies included or do not comprise the tabulation of content, show comprise or be not included in cable modem MAC.Therefore, which cable modem of cable modem message handler 48 may command should be mapped, and which cable modem should be not mapped.CMTS be network service management server 12 do not need to manage the leader cable modulator-demodulator time, or carry out not on the same group during the dissimilar mapping on the modulator-demodulator when network service management server 12, this function is easily.

Mapping with two types: mapping of portless modulator-demodulator and detailed modulator-demodulator mapping.Some cable modems have a plurality of ports or interface.The example comprises Ethernet, USB and wave point.The mapping of this portless is considered as single logic port with each cable modem, and does not consider the number or the type of modem interface.The mapping of this detailed modulator-demodulator with each single port or interface mappings to cable modem, as different logic ports.

Because the standard interface MIB of this modulator-demodulator need not inquired about by network service management server 12, then this portless modulator-demodulator mapping is more a lot of soon than the mapping of detailed modulator-demodulator.

This detailed mapping can take a long time.Yet, the network equipment that it allows network service management server 12 that cable modem 18 is considered as managing.The network equipment of other management can be placed in after the cable modem, and network service management server 12 can provide repertoire to all devices.

When cable modem 18 is according to portless mapping and when mapped, the port that is undertaken by network service management server 12 is resolved the business of determining CPE and from which modulator-demodulator is initiated.

When cable modem 18 is according to detailed mapping and when mapped, the port of being made by network service management server 12 is resolved the business of determining CPE and from which modem interface is sent.

Network service management server 12 is communicated by letter with cable modem 18, to carry out detailed mapping.Network service management server 12 does not need to communicate by letter to carry out the mapping of portless with cable modem 18.

In case the cable modem that CPE is connected to is mapped, can carry out the location resolution of CPE.Fig. 7 demonstrates an example of the location resolution processor 52 of Figure 1B.Location resolution processor 52 has two CPE location resolution mechanism: based on SNMP location resolution 90 with based on the location resolution 92 of DHCP option.Location resolution processor 52 employment mechanisms 90 or 92 are carried out the CPE location resolution.

Location resolution processor 52 can be when network service management system 12 be known the CPE MAC Address, it is professional or when having visited ipNetToMediaPhysAddress MIB on CMTS 14 promptly to receive CPE DHCP at network service management system 12, carries out the location resolution based on SNMP.When not having CPE DHCP professional, the Proprietary MIB (that is non-DOCSIS MIB) on the location resolution processor 52 inquiry CMTS14.This MIB provides CPE MAC-cable modem MAC association.Therefore, according to known to the CPE MAC Address, location resolution processor 52 can obtain the cable modem MAC Address from this association, and uses the physical location of the information analysis cable modem in the cable modem database 26.For resolving 90, CMTS should respond inquiry the suitable related MIC of privately owned CPE MAC-cable modem MAC is provided.

Location resolution processor 52 can be carried out the location resolution 92 based on DHCP option when network service management system 12 receives CPE DHCP business.Location resolution processor 52 writes down the RAI MAC Address of CPE automatically according to DHCP option 82.The RAI MAC Address is included in the bag of the DHCP DISCOVER of CPE (DHCP inquiry) at least and the user logging of the CPE in the registration driver.

This RAI MAC Address will be the MAC Address of the cable modem 18 that is connected to of CPE 20.For modulator-demodulator DHCP DISCOVERS, the RAI MAC Address is identical with cable modem MAC.Therefore, if network service management server 12 is not also visited the MIB of the privately owned CPE-CM association on the CMTS 14, if and network service management server 12 receives CPE DHCP when professional, network service management server 12 can use the RAI MAC Address that has write down as CPE, with the cable modem of determining that CPE 20 is connected to.

When cable modem 18 was at length shone upon, network service management server 12 can be inquired about the modem port of bridge joint MIB to determine that CPE is connected to of the standard of modulator-demodulator subsequently.

According to the abovementioned embodiments of the present invention, the cable operator can select to supply the wide area supplier of mobile Internet service as the whole network of crossing over them.The existing cable network continues to provide the cable modem residential area and the commercial Internet service of routine.In addition, cable companies can be with its supply expansion to be included in mobile Internet user's service.

Internet service can use the basis to pay according to each.Customer authentication and can use credit card, prepaid card or the reservation account pays to service.The current any position via the service of cable modem supply network of cable companies is configured to the public the Internet access node as the payment of per unit use.

With reference to figure 6, additional assembly or the function that is included in the network service management server 12 is described.

Network service management server 12 comprises packet driver 303.Packet driver 303 is checked the bag that networks.If the bag that networks is identified as the bag through route, packet driver equals distribution the IP address of initial ip address.If this wraps the bag into bridge joint, the inquiry in registration driver 40 of its MAC Address.If run into this MAC Address first, then distribute an IP address, and if the source IP address of this bag be effective unappropriated IP address, then this IP address will be assigned to that MAC Address.In case determine this IP address allocated, carrying out sound (sanity) detects, to guarantee that the original ip address relevant with MAC also do not change in unacceptable mode, if it changes in unacceptable mode, then delete this record, therefore, if be registered before them, then force the client to re-register.If the original ip address in IP address allocated and the client bag is different, then this IP address will be replaced by in IP or the ARP head IP address allocated and according to the verification of the bag of method described in the RFC-1624 through recomputating and.If this bag comprises TCP or UDP bag, this verification subsequently and the IP address of further being recomputated as described above with the process change in the relevant pseudo-head (pseudo-header) of the such bag described in the chapters and sections 3.3 of explanation and RFC-1631.

All go out the source destination address (as IP address allocated) that the net bag has its inquiry in registration driver 40.If find the record of coupling, be non-zero and when being not equal to the current target address, original ip address is replaced then at original ip address.Subsequently for the bag that networks recomputate as mentioned above verification and.

Network service management server 12 comprises packet filtering input rule processor 305 and packet filtering forwarding rule processor 306 (being called the packet filtering rules processor).The packet filtering rules of the state of the source that 305, the 306 permission checks of packet filtering rules processor are used to wrap and/or the registration mark of destination address.

Network service management server 12 comprises TCP/IP sockets interface 311, soln port monitoring program 315 and Command Line Interface 317.TCP/IP sockets interface 311 is the socket network interface of standard, for example interface that is provided by Linux, Unix.

Soln port monitoring program 315 is responsible for carrying out the periodic backups of the routine of registering driver.Soln port monitoring program 315 is also monitored the UDP business of particular port.Command Line Interface 317 provides management and diagnostic tool to the system manager.It is as the interface, user area in the registration driver 40.It can be used as current state or this current state of change of checking registration driver 40.

Network service management server 12 comprises the pop server 313 that is used for the email service.If the client attempts not register and reads its email, the request of then reading or downloading email is sent to pop server 313.Pop server 313 is limited in the number of the emails that the client can send in the period of registration.Pop server 313 calculates the number of the email that sends in the period of registration.If the client surpasses the specific limited that is provided with by the keeper, then network service management server 12 does not allow to send any more email by the client.The anti-locking system of this characteristic is used as the SPAM relay system.Can in registration driver 40, hour of log-on be set.

Network service management server 12 comprises registration web page server 310 and redirected web page server 314.Registration web page server 310 provides local content for the network service management server, and registration web page server 310 comprises registration web page, administration web page and configuration webpage.

Registration web page is as client's inlet of the service that is provided by network service management server 12.This comprises the registration that is used for accesses network.The client can select the method for different checkings, comprises based on port or based on the verification method of access code.For example, in verification model, determine charge information according to their IP address allocated based on port.For example, in checking, determine expense according to the access code of client's input based on access code.Access code can comprise access (prepaid) sign indicating number and location-based access code, and is as described below.

Administration web page allows server administrators and employee to carry out various task, comprise that current state, the people's workforce accreditation of checking the registration driver change, are included in the change of the setting of the assembly in the network service management server 12, the healthy variable of display system, show charge information and demonstration and generate access code.

Be redirected the http business that web page server 314 is monitored on the particular port.When redirected web page server 314 received the http request, it sent to registration web page server 310 with the client.

Network service management server 12 comprises the dns server 312 of increasing income of standard, to handle its DNS request.

As mentioned above, registration driver 40 keeps original ip address, IP address allocated, client mac address, router mac address and RAI MAC Address.Registration driver 40 comprises that also timing parameters is with the hour of log-on of permission regular length and unregistered client's static overtime (inactivity timeout).This timing parameters can comprise: creation-time, hour of log-on, registration termination, the end of record, last service time and mark.The creation-time parameter shows that the IP address is assigned to this client's time.The hour of log-on parameter demonstrates the registered client carries out access to the Internet by location registration process time.The registration terminal parameter demonstrates the time that causes registration owing to expiring.End of record parameter demonstrates the time that IP address allocated will be returned free IP address set.At last the parameter of Shi Yonging demonstrate/from last time of client.Mark comprises and is used to indicate (that is registration, of the state of particular customer and the bit field of characteristic; DHCP; Effectively; Permanent; Deng).

Registration driver 40 is safeguarded the collection of IP address allocated and unappropriated IP address.The address set of registration driver 40 maintain customer in VPN (virtual private network) (VPN).

As mentioned above, network service management server 12 provides the multiple charging and the payment option of supply flexibility ratio for MSO and their client, and has the multifrequency nature that is used to register/charge service.Network service management server 12 is integrated with many charge systems, and these many charge systems comprise that the cable account in the hotel industry charges and the architectural control charge system.

Network service management server 12 can be registration and the service of chargeing provides following function or assembly.

Building management system 1 mode (PMS1 mode): network service management server 12 has the client's book (client folio) that is used for to this locality building and puts up the PMS1 mode assembly of expense, for example the client's book in the hotel.PMS1 mode assembly is supported multiple interfaces, for example MicrosFidelio, Hilton, Springer Miller, Bell HOBIC, HIS, Galaxy, MSI, Encore, Lodgistix, Hitachi HOBIC, System 21, Yesware and Comtrol.

The 12 integrated chargings that allow for high-speed the Internet access of network service management server are presented at the PMS on user's book.The client only selects service when registration, and the network service management server directly is transferred to expense client's book of hotel guest room via PMS.This expense that guarantees that high-speed the Internet access is used appears on client's bill.

Building management system 2 modes (PMS 2 modes): network service management server 12 have with the PMS 2 mode assemblies of building PMS system interaction with on client's book, put up expense and from the PMS retrieving information to show further authentication mechanism, retrieval and supply discount.PMS 2 mode assembly supporting interface, for example Micros Fidelio.The integrated permission of PMS 2 modes provides the customization of team's discount and service when supplying online charging information for the client.PMS 2 mode assemblies extract data from the PMS database.

This allows bells and whistles, for example:

-the state of booking rooms/check out: all business can be suspended, and are ordered up to hotel room.This means up to the guest of hotel and registered the room do not have other people (that is the employee in undelegated user, house-owner or the building) can use this service.

-client book is browsed: this characteristic allows online their the current hotel expense of browsing down of guest.

-discount: this function allows building to be provided with according to PMS and implements charging of Internet access discount.

The inquiry of-name: this characteristic allows building from PMS database retrieval customer information.Have this characteristic, building is each customization registration page automatically.

RADIUS (remote authentication dial-in user's service) supports: network service management server 12 has the RADIUS supporting assembly that is used to support radius capability.The authentication vs. authorization of RADIUS supporting assembly is in the information that is sent to radius server on the internet.The client can have the concentrated account of configuration.

The RADIUS supporting assembly provides based on the checking of concentrating the account, and allow building everyone supplies the sale of brand scope to dominant company and group.

RADIUS is by user ID and Password Management clients' accounts.Network service management server 12 is used as the RDIUS client node, and user ID and password are forwarded to the radius server that is used to verify.If there are a plurality of network service management server sites on identical type, then this characteristic allows the architectural control people to use identical authorization information (usemame/password) at the website of all participations.

Credit card is supported: network service management server 12 has the credit card supporting assembly that is used to support the credit card payment that uses on the internet.Allow this client its internet use to be paid by their credit card.In case credit card is by the checking of third party's authorization service, this client is allowed to access to the Internet.When being configured for credit card validation, network service management server 12 route credit informations, and (for example Verisign authorize.net) charges to the trading server based on the internet that is used to handle safely.The permission during 12 receptions of network service management server are replied or the message of refusal.

The access (prepaid) sign indicating number: network service management server 12 has and is used to generate the access (prepaid) sign indicating number with the access (prepaid) Code Element at the Internet service authorize clients.Similar to telephone calling card, the client imports the access (prepaid) sign indicating number to obtain access to the Internet.Prepaid card has the correlation time that the client can be connected to the internet.

Other service of a specific order relevant with access code can be provided with by the type of time block, service class, bandwidth and/or IP address.At the user will be on workbench or calculator for services pay and receive the environment design access sign indicating number of particular level of service.

The user buys for reservation service and time efficient access code.In case registration allows the user to move on to other room or port from a room or port.Access (prepaid) Code Element identification user's unique mac address, and the user is not chargeed again.

For example, for meeting or reception room,, be used to prevent the swindle use for each port generates access code.

Location-based access code:, may wish the particular port limiting access, for example the port in the conference hall, commercial center or lobby for building.Network service management server 12 is supported by the such restrict access of location-based access code.The user uses the access code registration service.

A plurality of hour of log-on sections: network service management server 12 provides a plurality of hour of log-on sections.The client of request/registration Internet service can select different hour of log-on sections.

Many type services: network service management server 12 provides a plurality of type services.Type service (for example Fu Wu speed, public or private ip distribute, connect number of times) is provided as the option to the client requests/registration of Internet service.

Charging based on byte: network service management server 12 allows building that the use of network is chargeed.Network service management server 12 is followed the tracks of the client by the real network service traffics that consumed and is used and charge.

Time-based charging: network service management server 12 allow building with minute, hour, day, week, charge year or 10 years, which kind of parameter no matter is built needs.Network service management server 12 is followed the tracks of client's connect hours, and it is similar to toll telephone.The client by they be connected to the internet minute number charge.In addition, the charging that can per minute the user be increased progressively.

Network service management server 12 also can have the function that following service is provided.

Print: the print service of network service management server 12 supplies " operatorless (driver-less) ".Use the serving web page on the customer selecting network service management server 12 of this feature.The customer selecting Printing Qptions.System supports the MS office document.File is uploaded to network service management server 12, is routed to long-range conversion server, and is returned to server.The client has at the option that sends file preview file before the printer.This architectural control can be chargeed to print service.

Walled Garden (free sites): the network service management server is supported the free sites tabulation.The client of use network service management server 12 can only visit the website in " free sites " tabulation, has registered access to the Internet up to them.This characteristic has a cover webmaster can add or delete the instrument of website to from tabulation.

The agency supports: 12 supports of network service management server have been configured to the client browser via their web-page requests of acting server route.Network service management server 12 has the management tool that is used to change proxy port, for example adds new proxy port.Network service management server 12 is supported a plurality of proxy ports, for example (1080,3124,8000,8080), and further increase new proxy port.Use this instrument, network service management server 12 is supplied seamless agency for client computer and is supported, this client computer is preconfigured effective proxy port in their browser.

VPN supports: network service management server 12 virtual support dedicated networks (VPN).VPN supports to allow client computer to be connected to long-range VPN service via network service management server 12.The client registers the VPN service on network service management server 12.The client can register this service by registration web page.In case network service management server 12 checking clients, client computer starts their VPN client software and gets back to their company's network safely from the internet by the tunnel.Network service between all client computers and the long-range vpn server is all encrypted.The VPN traffic of being supported by network service management server 12 comprises the business that is used for PPTP (PPTP) and IP safety (IPSEC) agreement.

The foregoing description is by using cable modem network to describe.Network service management server 12 also integrated different manufacturer's hardware and cable modem.

WAP (wireless access point): network service management server 12 provides support for WAP (wireless access point).The wireless universal access point can be used as hub.Network service management server 12 is according to their mac-address authentication client.Network service management server 12 is resolved the position that access point is connected to the interchanger through managing.

Wireless bridge: network service management server 12 integrated private wireless bridges, it resolves the MAC Address of wireless bridge.If the MAC Address of wireless bridge is effective, then wireless bridge is " mapped " to the client room.Use this function, network service management server 12 determines that the client begins to connect wherefrom, and the actual room that finds the client to be connected to allows network service management server 12 directly to record bill to client's bookkeeping of this client.

The present invention can be applied to the heterogeneous networks with suitable change by the MSO operation.Heterogeneous networks can comprise various network entity.An example of different MSO internal networks is displayed among Fig. 8.MSO internal network 100 comprises a plurality of network entities, wherein, comprise can from or to the adapter of CPE 20 routing services.MSO internal network 100 is terminated by the terminal installation 114 that is arranged in network operation center 106.MSO network 100 can be the Digital Subscriber Line network, or satellite network.

For example, when MSO internal network 100 was the DSL network, this network comprised one or more DSL modulator-demodulator and one or more DSL concentrators as terminal installation 114 as adapter 118.The DSL modulator-demodulator is corresponding with cable modem and CMTS in the aforesaid cable modem network respectively with the DSL concentrator.The DSL concentrator provides Network collection and the relay services similar to the CMTS in the cable modem network.The DSL concentrator can be DSLAM (DSLAM).

The network service management server 104 similar to aforesaid network service management server 4 is integrated with DSL concentrator and DSL modulator-demodulator.In the DSL network, the DSL modulator-demodulator is not asked the IP address or is not asked the TFTP configuration file.Therefore, network service management server 104 inquiry DSL concentrators are to obtain about DSL modulator-demodulator that is connected to the DSL concentrator and the information that is connected to the CPE of DSL modulator-demodulator.Network service management server 104 is also inquired about the DSL concentrator to determine which DSL CPE is connected to, and for example, finds the position of room/port/DSL modulator-demodulator, and the client connects his/her CPE from this room/port/DSL modulator-demodulator position.This is similar with interchanger and port that the retrieval client is connected to inquiry interchanger port.This interchanger/port is mapped in the physics room in the local building subsequently.The DSL concentrator can use the bridge mib (RFC 1493) of standard, or other private methods are to obtain this information.Network service management server 104 can be in due course, to carry out customer data collection, network provisioning, client authorization and/or route to above-mentioned mode similar in cable modem network.

The foregoing description can be implemented as the combination of hardware, software or hardware and software.When specific embodiment of the present invention has been shown and has illustrated, can make a change and revise this embodiment, and not depart from the true scope of defined invention in the claims.

Claims

1. network service management server that is used to manage by the network service of the internal network of multisystem operator operation, described internal network is formed by network entity, and described network service management server comprises:

Be arranged on the registration driver of position of the selection of described internal network, it is used for registering one the client who is connected to described network entity;

Be arranged on the address assignment processor of position of the selection of described internal network, it is used to described client to distribute the address, and one in described address and the described network entity that described client is connected to is associated; With

Message handler, it is used for based on described addresses distributed is that described client handles and the relevant information of network service.

2. network service management server as claimed in claim 1, wherein:

Described registration driver registration has the client of Internet Protocol (IP) address or media interviews control (MAC) address of distribution.

3. network service management server as claimed in claim 1, wherein:

The client that described registration driver registration is associated with the information of one or more networking components, described client is by the described one or more networking component routes of process.

4. network service management server as claimed in claim 1, it also comprises:

The network entity data storehouse, it is used to store the positional information of the network entity that is associated with the MAC Address of described network entity; With

The location resolution processor, it is used for obtaining the network entity MAC Address from Network, and be used for resolving described client's position based on the positional information of the described network entity that uses described client IP address or MAC Address, wherein, described Network is to send or send to the described client's who is connected to described network entity from the client who is connected to described network entity.

5. network service management server as claimed in claim 4, wherein:

The client that described registration driver registration is associated with client IP address or client mac address.

6. network service management server as claimed in claim 4, wherein:

Described internal network reflection is as one or more network entities of route device; And

Described address assignment processor distributes the address for described client, and the information of one or more route devices that described client's business is routed is reflected in described address.

7. network service management server as claimed in claim 6, wherein:

Described internal network comprises one or more trunk modules; And

Described address assignment processor distributes the address for described client, and the information of one or more trunk modules of the professional process of described client is reflected in described address.

8. network service management server as claimed in claim 4, wherein:

Described internal network comprises the network entity as bridge-set; And

Described address assignment processor distributes the address for described client, and the information of network entity of the bridge joint of the professional process of described client is reflected in described address.

9. network service management server as claimed in claim 4, wherein:

Described message handler is that described client handles charge information based on the described client's who is resolved by described location resolution processor position.

10. network service management server as claimed in claim 1, wherein:

Described client has the fixed address that is used for external network; And,

Described network service management server also comprises address translator, and described address translator is used for described fixed address is translated into described addresses distributed or described addresses distributed is translated into described fixed address.

11. network service management server as claimed in claim 4 also comprises:

The network entity supply processor that is used for the supply network entity; With

Be used for network entity message handler at the described information provision of described network entity data storehouse storage.

12. network service management server, be used for the Internet service that management has the cable modem network of a plurality of cable modems and Cable Modem Terminal System (CMTS), described Cable Modem Terminal System (CMTS) is used for communicating by letter with the cable modem that is connected, and described network service management server comprises:

Be arranged on the registration driver of position of the selection of described cable modem network, it is used for registering one the client who is connected to described cable modem;

Be arranged on the address assignment processor of position of the selection of described cable modem network, it is used for distributing customer address to described client, and one in described customer address and the described cable modem that described client is connected to is associated; With

Message handler, its customer address that is used for based on described distribution is that described client handles the information relevant with Internet service.

13. network service management server as claimed in claim 12, wherein:

Described registration driver registration is based on the described client of described IP address allocated or MAC Address.

14. network service management server as claimed in claim 12, wherein:

The client that the information of the CMTS that described registration driver registration and client are connected to is associated.

15. a management is by the network service method of the internal network of multisystem operator operation, described internal network is made of network entity, said method comprising the steps of:

Be connected to one client in the described network entity at the Location Registration of the selection of described internal network;

Distribute the address for described client, one in described address and the described network entity that described client is connected to is associated; And

Based on described addresses distributed is that described client handles and the relevant information of network service.

16. method as claimed in claim 15, wherein:

Described registration step registration is based on the client of Internet protocol (IP) address of distributing or media interviews control (MAC) address.

17. method as claimed in claim 15, wherein:

The client that described registration step registration is associated with the information of one or more networking components, described client is by the described one or more networking component routes of process.

18. method as claimed in claim 15, it may further comprise the steps:

The positional information of the network entity that storage is associated with the IP address allocated of described network entity;

Obtain the network entity MAC Address from Network, described Network be send from the client who is connected to described network entity or send to the client who is connected to described network entity; With

Based on the described positional information of the described network entity that uses described client IP address or MAC Address, resolve described client's position.

19. method as claimed in claim 18, wherein:

The client that described registration step registration is associated with client IP address or client mac address.

20. method as claimed in claim 18, wherein:

When one or more network entities were route device, described allocation step was distributed the address of the information that reflects described device to described client, and described client is by the described device route of process.

21. as right 20 described methods, wherein:

When described internal network comprised one or more trunk module, described allocation step was distributed the information that reflects one or more trunk modules to described client, and described client is professional through described one or more trunk modules.

22. method as claimed in claim 18, wherein:

When one or more network entities were bridge-set, described allocation step was distributed the address of the information of the network entity that reflects bridge joint to described client, the professional network entity through described bridge joint of described client.

23. method as claimed in claim 18, wherein:

Described information processing step is handled client's charge information based on the client's who is resolved by described location resolution processor position.

24. method as claimed in claim 15, wherein:

For client, described fixed address is translated into described addresses distributed or described addresses distributed is translated into described fixing address with the fixed address that is used for external network.

25. method as claimed in claim 15 is further comprising the steps of:

The supply network entity; With

The described information provision of storage in the network entity data storehouse.

26. a computer-readable medium, its storage are used for carrying out instruction or the statement of management by the network service method of the internal network of multisystem operator operation at computer, described internal network is made of network entity, said method comprising the steps of:

Be connected to one client in the described network entity in the registration of the position of the selection of described internal network;

Distribute the address to described client, one in described address and the described network entity that described client is connected to is associated; And

27. one kind is used for carrying out the electronic signal of management by the network service method of the internal network of multisystem operator operation at computer, described internal network is made of network entity, said method comprising the steps of:

For described client distributes the address, one in described address and the described network entity that described client is connected to is associated; And

28. one kind is used for carrying out the computer program of management by the network service method of the internal network of operator's operation of multisystem at computer, described internal network is made of network entity, and described computer program comprises:

Be used for being connected to one client's of described network entity module in the registration of the position of the selection of described internal network;

Be used for distributing the module of the address that a network entity of the described network entity that is connected to described client is associated to described client;

Being used for based on described addresses distributed is the module that described client handles the information relevant with the network service.